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Leduc's Extreme Pita franchisee Janel Jankovic wrapped up a recent Heart and Stroke Foundation well, ending up as the number one restaurant in Canada to raise the most money.

Selling countless paper hearts to customers, Jankovic and her staff were able to raise more than $2,500 for the foundation, something they owe to the community.

"The community was wonderful because I know how it can get when you're asked the same thing all the time but they were wonderful," recalled the franchisee. She added several local companies also made larger donations to the cause and one customer in particular would donate every time he visited the restaurant.

A cheque presentation held on Friday, July 13 saw local dignitaries share their appreciation for the local franchisee who is doing her part, along with her staff and the fast-food chain, to make Leduc a healthier place.

"It's quite fitting that Healthy Hearts started here and this is where healthy hearts have made a difference in Leduc," said Leduc Mayor Greg Krischke, about the city's partnership which focuses getting people active in and around the city.

In April 2011, Extreme Pita became the first national Canadian fast-food chain to earn Health Check approval, a standard of healthy eating habits available to Canadians.

Keeping hearts healthy is a near and dear cause to Jankovic, whose grandfather passed away from a heart attack and grandmother suffered from a stroke, along with other family members who have had heart problems.

"For me, it was the franchise who brought it in, but it was really nice to see a foundation we could work for.

"I have family members who really need this foundation. I am very glad they brought it in."